The First World War, also known as the Great War, was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918. It involved many of the world’s major powers, primarily divided into two opposing alliances: the Allies (including France, Russia, and the United Kingdom) and the Central Powers (including Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire).

The war was triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in June 1914. This event led to a series of diplomatic and military escalations, with countries declaring war on each other. The conflict quickly spread across Europe and eventually involved countries from around the world.

The war was characterized by trench warfare, with soldiers on both sides digging elaborate systems of trenches to protect themselves from enemy fire. It was also marked by the use of new weapons and technologies, such as machine guns, artillery, and poison gas, which caused unprecedented casualties and destruction.

The war resulted in the deaths of millions of soldiers and civilians, with estimates ranging from 9 to 15 million. It also had far-reaching political, social, and economic consequences. The Russian Revolution of 1917, for example, was partly fueled by the hardships and disillusionment caused by the war.

The First World War ended with the signing of the Armistice of Compiègne on November 11, 1918. This armistice led to the eventual signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, which imposed harsh conditions on Germany and its allies. The war laid the groundwork for future conflicts, including the Second World War, and reshaped the geopolitical landscape of the world.